Encore DVD is wildly over looked, and usaully bashed, true, 1. 0 was, in comparison to most, poor, but it had some good features. I still use 1. 5 now and again, when there is a need to. It has great photoshop support. I've recently been setting up my new DVD authoring company, or at least trying to, I found whats needed is.

DVD authoring program - I use Spruce DVDMaestro which I bought a long while ago. There are alot out there. Graphics Suite - Such as Adobe Photoshop (the most important), Gimp, Illustrator etc. Video Editing - I've recently upgraded to Avid HD, but still use Adobe Premiere Pro. Plus you can use the audio functions to edit audio (I think). They're the core, also useful are;. Compositing Programs - Such as Adobe After effects, Discreet Combustion, Eyeon [Digital] Fusion etc.